India’s Predicted Squad For 2023 Asia Cup: All eyes are on Sanju Samson’s fate as speculation swirls about his inclusion in the upcoming Asia Cup. The cricket community is abuzz with questions: Will KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer mark their triumphant comebacks? And what about the potential return of R Ashwin? The long wait for fans is set to conclude on Monday, August 21, as the BCCI announces the lineup for the 2023 Asia Cup. The selection conclave is scheduled to convene in Delhi, featuring not only the selectors but also captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid.
During the West Indies series, India extended a generous leash to young players, pitting them against the hosts to test their mettle. While some capitalized splendidly on the opportunity, others grappled to find their footing. Sanju Samson, whose performance yielded just a solitary 50+ score in the West Indies, might face omission from the Asia Cup roster, while KL Rahul appears poised to stage his return. As we await the BCCI’s formal squad unveiling, we take a glimpse into the potential composition for the Continental tournament:
India’s Predicted Squad For 2023 Asia Cup
Opening Pairs
Assuming the mantle of leadership for the third consecutive time in the Asia Cup, Rohit Sharma is primed to spearhead Team India. His captaincy had previously steered the Men in Blue to a championship victory in 2018; however, the 2022 campaign saw India fall short of the final berth under his leadership. An almost certain figure to open the innings alongside him is Shubman Gill.
Ishan Kishan’s triumphant streak, marked by three consecutive fifties against West Indies, has solidified his position as a backup opener and secondary wicketkeeper in the lineup. He holds a notable edge over Sanju Samson in the pecking order.
Middle-Order Dominance
Virat Kohli is slated to persist as the steadfast occupant of the third batting slot. Barring any setbacks, Shreyas Iyer is anticipated to reclaim his position at number 4. Iyer’s legacy in the lineup was established post the 2019 World Cup, and he rose as one of the premier performers in the format. A regrettable back injury had temporarily benched him.
Parallelly, KL Rahul is poised for a return to the team. Although Iyer’s comeback remains unconfirmed, multiple sources suggest Rahul’s presence in the Asia Cup squad. Rahul is earmarked as India’s premier wicketkeeper for both the Asia Cup and World Cup campaigns.
The one vacant spot is likely to see a competition between Suryakumar Yadav and Sanju Samson. Suryakumar, despite his 50-over struggles, is the preferred candidate due to his current form. Samson’s travails during the West Indies tour, culminating in just a single 50+ score, might hamper his chances.
Adept All-Rounders
No ambiguity surrounds this section. Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja will undoubtedly assume the all-rounder roles within the squad. Both stalwarts hold a prominent stature in global cricket and are poised to play pivotal roles. Pandya’s involvement in the white-ball leadership cohort is noteworthy.
Bowling Brigade
Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and Kuldeep Yadav have secured their berths in the Asia Cup lineup. While Yuzvendra Chahal and Axar Patel are likely to retain their positions, the prospect of R Ashwin’s return casts uncertainty on one of their positions.
Given the dearth of a right-arm off-spinner in the Indian lineup, Ashwin’s resurgence is on the cards. The seasoned spinner might replace Axar Patel if he receives a recall.
Predicted India Squad for the 2023 Asia Cup: Captain – Rohit Sharma, Opening Batsmen – Shubman Gill, Ishan Kishan (Reserve Opener, Second-choice Wicketkeeper), Middle Order – Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (First-choice Wicketkeeper), Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya, Bowling Attack – Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel/R Ashwin (dependent on selection).”
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